Training Specifics

Prerequisites

AMI training centers in the U.S. usually require a bachelor’s degree for acceptance into the course. For AMI training at the elementary level, an AMI primary diploma or an AMI Foundations Course is a prerequisite.

Formats

AMI offers academic-year and summer training formats to accommodate most schedules. Both formats cover the same content and are full-time commitments.

Academic-year courses are completed in one year and typically run from September to May.

Summer training courses span two to four summers, with interim work, such as classroom observation and seminars.

Levels

Montessori classrooms are designed for multi-age grouping to allow for three-year age levels. Training is therefore offered for these three levels:

Assistants to Infancy—A to I (infant to 3 years)

The assistants to infancy course provides an opportunity for in-depth study of Montessori pedagogy and practices along with current medical and psychological approaches to child development during the first three years of life. During the course, students are introduced to Montessori’s theory of human development and specific studies in anatomy and physiology, obstetrics, nutrition and hygiene, child neuropsychiatry, development of movement, development of language, music, art, and spiritual development.

Primary (3 to 6 years)

The primary course focuses on the Montessori pedagogy and practices relating to the characteristics of children from 3 to 6 years of age, the needs expressed during this stage of development, and the means available to assist the child’s work of self-construction. The teacher is trained to act as a vital and unhurried link between children and their surroundings; all children explore freely at their own pace. Student observation and practice teaching are under the direct guidance of the training staff.

Elementary (6 to 12 years)

The elementary course is an interdisciplinary study of human beings, their endeavors, and their relationship to the universe. At the elementary level, children seek the reason for everything. Rather than expecting the child to memorize a curriculum, Dr. Maria Montessori presented aspects of culture to the elementary child as “seeds of interest,” lessons to touch the imagination and ignite the intellect. Searching for answers through individual and small group activities, elementary students learn geography, biology, history, language, science, music, art, and all branches of mathematics. The training for elementary teachers also includes Dr. Montessori’s principles of psychology, education, and teaching methodology.

Applying

Each training center has its own application process. Please contact the training center of your choice to request specific details including training offered, application deadlines, and tuition assistance.